Sources contribution for benthic invertebrates: an inter-lake comparison in a flood plain system

Abstract

To explore temporal variation in trophic relationships of benthic invertebrates in the Middle Paraná River floodplain, we performed stable isotopes analysis (SIA) in two lakes with contrasting morphologies during both dry and flooding periods. Lake 1 is permanently connected, large and deep with a narrow aquatic–terrestrial transition zone (ATTZ), and Lake 2 is temporarily connected, small and shallow with a wide ATTZ. The source contribution analysis showed that macrophytes and sediment particulate organic matter are important basal resources. We found sharp temporal variations with regard to gatherer–collectors in Lake 2, being sediment particulate organic matter the most important source during dry period. However, during flooding, macrophytes and epiphyton increased their importance. Our results reveal temporal variations in trophic interactions, suggesting that hydrologic and morphologic characteristics of water bodies can be important factors determining food web structure. Besides, we provide evidence from floodplain lakes of the Middle Paraná River, which contradicts the general idea that algae is the main carbon source in floodplain rivers.